How a skill by Memphis Depay led to rule change in Brazil football
How a skill by Memphis Depay led to rule change in Brazil football
Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) has directed referees to punish players who stand on the ball with yellow cards, after a similar move by Dutch forward Memphis Depay in the Paulista Championship final sparked a brawl.
Three days after Dutch striker Depay’s act, two players were given yellow cards for standing on the ball during a match between Bolivia and Brazil in the South American U17 Championship.
Depay stood on the ball in front of opposing defenders on March 27 as his club Corinthians closed in on the Paulista title during a goalless game against Palmeiras, after his team won the first leg 1-0.
Two defenders ran up to the former Manchester United and Barcelona player, who went down near the touchline where Corinthians substitutes were warming up, leading to a brawl between the two teams. The match was held up for several minutes.
“Last week, (continental body) CONMEBOL advised… of the need to comply with the technical and disciplinary measure, indirect free kick and yellow card, respectively, when an athlete carries out this act,” the CBF said in a statement on Sunday.
The CBF clarified it had followed CONMEBOL’s recommendation in implementing the regulation.
Depay wrote on X, “Who’s deciding the future of this beautiful football country? Let’s focus on what rules can improve the sport and focus on the business side of football, what benefits the clubs the fans and players, instead of these silly announcements.”
Brazilian superstar Neymar, who is known for his flair, also criticised the ban. “Football is getting more and more boring,” he wrote on Instagram.
Published on Apr 07, 2025
